Karen Acompora, president of the Louis J. Acompora Memorial Foundation, heading ‘Anyone Can Save a Life’ program in New York
Karen Acompora, president of the Louis J. Acompora Memorial Foundation, heading ‘Anyone Can Save a Life’ program in New York
Louis J. Acompora lost his life in March 2000 at age 14 while playing lacrosse for his high school team of Northport High School in Northport, NY. His death was caused by a syndrome known as Commotio Cordis. This occurs from blunt impact trauma during the critical cycle in the rhythm of the heart. In his position as goalie, Louis blocked what appeared to be a routine shot with his chest protector, took a few steps and collapsed. Paramedics arrived with a defibrillator almost 15 minutes later, but it was too late to save his life.